Tomlinson currently lives in Austin, Texas, where he is responsible for political and state government reporting from the state. He has been employed by The Associated Press since 1995 and has done international investigative reporting with stints in Africa and Iraq.

He will speak on his experiences abroad and his most recent job in Texas, as well as his book Tomlinson Hill, which explores his experiences as a fifth-generation Texan who is the descendent of slave holders.

Mia Moody-Ramirez, Ph.D., an associate professor in the department of journalism, public relations and new media in the College of Arts and Sciences, says hearing Tomlinson is a great opportunity for students.

"Students benefit greatly from hearing journalists who are working in the field," she said. "It is rare that our students get to hear from speakers with his skills and expertise. He is a high-achieving journalist."

Students and faculty members who are interested in history and journalism are invited to attend the event, which is co-sponsored by the Institute for Oral History, Student Activities and Multicultural Affairs, and the department of journalism, public relations and new media.

Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution, characterized as having "high research activity" by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university provides a vibrant campus community for approximately 15,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 11 nationally recognized academic divisions. Baylor sponsors 19 varsity athletic teams and is a founding member of the Big 12 Conference.